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Playing in 5 Corridors and 3 Zones Using the 3-3-1-3 for Attacking and Defending Team Shape
Using Corridors is a great way to work out individual and collective field positioning as a team both offensively and defensively and it also gives players real a “focal point” to work off. We use “Corridors” width wise and then introduce “Zones” lengthwise later. These “focal points of reference” I believe are a great way to really teach players to understand the differences between attacking and defending team shapes both widthwise and lengthwise. A great session to help players identify positional variations, the 4 lines are used as a clear guide widthwise.
The following is part of a 60 page presentation on the 3-3-1-3 that can be found in the recently added 3-3-1-3 System of Play page in the Soccer Awareness Training Center. Soccer Awareness Training Center provides unlimited access to Wayne Harrison's Soccer Awareness systems, training sessions, drills and more. Wayne's system helps develop world class youth soccer players and teams in a systematic and imaginative manner that guarantees performance at the highest level of competition. Whether you’re a beginning coach who needs help getting started or someone who wants to add some variety to their training sessions, the Soccer Awareness Training Center offers a wide variety of drills to choose from. Join Today
You can use this method of teaching with any system you like.
We divide the field up into Corridors and Zones to help players understand the major differences in spacing between attacking and defending team shape. We call them Corridors Widthwise and Zones Lengthwise. Below are some parameters to work off in my opinion. We first discuss the use of the Corridors.
Team Attacking Shape: Based on the 5 corridors width-wise we want all 5 corridors to have players in them. Based length–wise we want a maximum of 2 of 3 zones filled; with the exception of the keeper.
Team Defending Shape: Based on the 5 corridors width-wise we want a maximum of 3 corridors filled with players preferably 2.5 if possible.
Based length-wise we want a maximum of 2 of 3 zones filled preferably the whole team is condensed into 1.5 zones or at most half a field.
Playing in 5 Corridors Using the 3-3-1-3
Using Corridors is a great way to work out individual and collective field positioning as a team both offensively and defensively and it also gives players real a “focal point” to work off.
We use “Corridors” width wise and then introduce “Zones” lengthwise later.
These “focal points of reference” I believe are a great way to really teach players to understand the differences between attacking and defending team shapes both widthwise and lengthwise.
Particularly in defensive set ups (in my opinion); it shows players how to mark in zones and how much tighter it should be than they will likely imagine and especially shows those players furthest from the ball defensively how important zonal marking is.
Example, the balls is on our left with the other team and our right back is marking the opponents opposite side winger far too wide, by having designated lines this becomes much clearer to understand.
The Theme is positioning OFF the ball as a team
A great session to help players identify positional variations, the 4 lines are used as a clear guide widthwise.
Using such a fluid system of play as ours; putting the lines in as a condition is a great help.
Example if (7) goes outside (2) has to be inside (Phase 2 to Phase 3)
Defining lines also force players to play at angles to each other thus improving their peripheral vision and their preferred side-on body shape.
Divide the field in thirds lengthways also for attacking and defending principles to be worked on.
High pressing is vital to allow us to push many players forward so if we lose the ball in the attacking third we don’t let them out.
This is our starting position of 3-1-3-3. The keeper wins the ball and we change shape completely. This is Phase 1 of our 5 phases of play.
This is our defending position of 5-4-1 possibly after recovering back and playing more defensively.. The keeper wins the ball and we change shape completely.
Here we have a good balance with players positioning at angles to each other. This is Phase two of the 5 phases of play are wide and long.
Here we have a good balance with players positioning at angles to each other. This is Phase three of the 5 phases of play where (7) and (11) cut inside to overload in and around zone 14.
Get the rest of this 60 page presentation and much more on the 3-3-1-3 in the Soccer Awareness Training Center. We have just added 9 presentations on this very fluid system of play. Check it out.
Defensive Pressing to Push Up Without Touching the Ball
This is a great session to teach the players and shows how they can push opponents back even when THE OPPONENTS have the ball. We will try to push them back without even touching the ball ourselves. We start on the edge of our box we try to get our back three up to the half way line. Set Conditions will help us do this to start the process off.
This is part two of a full session on defensive pressing from the Soccer Awareness Training Center. In this session we are developing play from the back with inverted runs into "No Mans Land" central areas. Get the full series and more than 500 other drills and full training sessions in the Soccer Awareness Training Center.
This is a great session to teach the players and shows how they can push opponents back even when THE OPPONENTS have the ball.
We will try to push them back without even touching the ball ourselves. We start on the edge of our box we try to get our back three up to the half way line. Set Conditions will help us do this to start the process off.
Conditions:
Defending team cannot tackle.
Defending team CAN intercept a pass.
Attacking team must play 1 or 2 touches due to the fact defenders cannot tackle so opponents cant dribble 1 v 1.
Coaching Points:
Defenders press the ball as quickly as possible.
Try to stop the forward pass, try to force a pass across the field or backwards.
Defenders must recognize every opportunity to push up no matter how small a distance it may be.
Sometimes its 5 yards up 3 yards back for example depending on the position of ball and if there is pressure on it.
Try to intercept the pass and gain possession.
This session is teaching defenders how to push up and force the opponents back without touching the ball. The goal is to start on the edge of the box, the opponents have possession but by pressing and pushing up at the right times we force opponents back. Our aim is to get our back 3 up to the half way line. So this is moving approximately 40 yards up the field.
Start with equal numbers so success can be achieved.
v 7 plus the keeper. Set conditions are introduced to help the session. Coach to (E) and (10) presses to try to stop a forward pass. Defending team may sneak up 2 or 3 yards if (1) can delay.
Sliding up and across the field
(10) forces the sideways pass and this can also result in a pushing up a few yards from the back as well as pressing the ball. The coach is the target for the defending team to play to when they win the ball plus is a support player for the attacking team.
The longer the arrows the greater the distance travelled up the field each time
(3) Presses so well (B) has only a back pass to make. (8) and (10) are in passing lanes to stop a forward pass with an interception potentially. (3) positions to stop a pass to (A). As the ball travels this gives the team a real chance to get up several more yards. A the same time leave (E) offside.
Danger from a first time delivery from the coach to (A) or (C).
(10) Does not press the coach to then be out of position as the coach is too far away to stop a delivery. (3) presses inside to press (G), (8) moves up and across to press (F). If the coach passes to (D) then (2) can slide across quickly as will (8) and (10).
(E) is still offside but not interfering with play. (A) and (C) move wide to find more space and the coach plays to (C). The defending team now need to drop back and across and lose some ground. Midfield three condense back and across to where the ball is. Back 4 try to leave (E) offside still so don’t recover all the way goal-side. But still in good defensive shape.
How to Teach Freedom of Movement for the 4-2-3-1
Attacking and Defensive Positioning; and Covering for Each Other in Brief
To play such a fluid and imaginative style of play as we do; where players are offered such freedom offensively all over the field; there is always a "weakness" to this we need to address. In this case we look at the defensive consequences for which we need to cover and correct.
Attacking and Defensive Positioning; and Covering for Each Other in Brief
To play such a fluid and imaginative style of play as we do; where players are offered such freedom offensively all over the field; there is always a "weakness" to this we need to address. In this case we look at the defensive consequences for which we need to cover and correct. Full version is 39 pages.
Defensive Adjustment and Organization
The potential weakness in this system and STYLE of play is the defensive adjustments needed to ensure our fluidity of attacking movement doesn’t cost us when we lose possession of the ball.
This presentation shows how we can make sure; defensively; we are disciplined and solid by teaching the players where to immediately press; where and when to recover; and how to fill in and cover for each other immediately the ball is lost.
Therefore we transition (in MIND and BODY) from incredible freedom of attacking momentum; which brings imagination, interchanges and rotations, to the opposite; intense, concentrated and positionally disciplined defense.
This is a simple way to show how we can make sure the team is well organized to allow the attacking freedom to take place; knowing we can cover ourselves if we lose the ball.
Interchanging Positions in Attack and what it means. We attack with freedom and rotation of positions knowing we are covered by team mates.
So now, as close as possible to identify the change; Nine is 10, Eleven is 9, Eight is 6, Six is 8, Ten is 11; and so on. Three is in an Inside Left position, Two is in an Inside Right position. A six player attack.
Our Players have attacked and interchanged positions in the attack but we have lost the ball. They get the ball out and keep possession; we have to press and also recover at the same time.
Now we must press thru (4) who MUST delay (E), and the rest of the team can then get compact behind; alongside and in front of the opponents. (3) and (10) can recover to the press also.
In theory our players are out of position but are they? It depends how you teach them; how we press and recover and who does what, where and why.
Changes: Our Center back (4) is now a left fullback 3; our linking midfielder (8) is a center back 4; our left back (3) is a center midfielder 8, our striker (9) is a number 10; our attacking midfielder (10) is in the wide left position 11; our wide left (11) is in the (9) position and (2) is in 7s position and (7) is in 2s position.
Changes in Previous Diagrams:
To recap on the previous defensive recovery set up which was our offensive set up initially:
Our Center back (4) is now a left fullback 3;
Our linking midfielder (8) is a center back 4;
Our left back (3) is a center midfielder 8,
Our striker (9) is now a number 10;
Our attacking midfielder (10) is in the wide left position 11;
Our wide left striker (11) is in the (9) central striker position;
Our right fullback (2) is in 7s wide striker position;
Our wide right striker (7) is in right fullback 2s position.
How we press and recover and who does what, where and why and rotation back into original positions and defensive set up.
The Ball goes out of play, for example, the players then rotate back into their own positions; or any part of the game they have time to do this they must try to work back into their own positions. We then start again to win back the ball and continue the freedom futbol method of playing.
The 6 Second Transition Game
Teams are at their most vulnerable in terms of losing the ball, in the first few seconds after gaining possession. It is this transition period that we are looking at, both in terms of winning the ball back quickly and then keeping it. The key is the first six seconds after losing the ball. In this game when a team loses possession they have 6 seconds to win the ball back (the coach counts this out).
The following drill comes from the Soccer Awareness Training Center. Soccer Awareness Training Center provides unlimited access to Wayne Harrison's Soccer Awareness systems, training sessions, drills and more. Wayne's system helps develop world class youth soccer players and teams in a systematic and imaginative manner that guarantees performance at the highest level of competition. Whether you’re a beginning coach who needs help getting started or someone who wants to add some variety to their training sessions, the Soccer Awareness Training Center offers a wide variety of drills to choose from. Join Today
Organization:
Age Group U12s to adults
Pitch sizes 30/40 x 20 – or at the discretion of the coach
Number of teams – 2
Team sizes – 4-6
Bibs optional
Goals – 5 a side or mini soccer goals
Teams are at their most vulnerable in terms of losing the ball, in the first few seconds after gaining possession. It is this transition period that we are looking at, both in terms of winning the ball back quickly and then keeping it. The key is the first six seconds after losing the ball. This period is when the opposition has not yet switched from defensive to possession mode. The other key period is those six seconds after you have won the ball back and the need to maintain possession during that critical period when your team is changing shape and finding space (going wide and deep).
Progression: In this game when a team loses possession they have 6 seconds to win the ball back (the coach counts this out).
If they win it back in that time they are awarded a point (a goal). The idea is to double team and work frantically to get the ball back in the allotted time frame. If they fail to achieve this they must then go to the center and make sure they close all the gaps and limit the space for the opposition. If they do win the ball back within 6 seconds, if they are high up the pitch they must look for an immediate goal scoring opportunity. If they are in a more crowded midfield area they must look for an ‘outman’ who can get hold of the ball and maintain possession through the crucial 6 second period. This may well be a sideways pass or a backwards pass to a player in plenty of space. In the excellent book by Patrick Barclay, ‘Mourinho, Anatomy of a Winner’, Jose talks about doing a lot of work on ‘keep ball’. This was based on Mourinho’s theory of possession for possession’s sake. All teams need rest periods, and it is much better to do this when your team has possession. Other than the 6 second condition the rest of the game is a standard small sided game. Goals can also be scored in the normal way.
Defending in a 2v2 Situation
In a 2 v 2 show the “piston effect” of support movements as the ball travels. Also consider that the closest player can close down the ball as it travels from player to player.
The following session is an excerpt from “Soccer Awareness Coaching Curriculums presented by Game Sizes: 4 v 4, 7 v 7, 9 v 9 through to 11 v 11”
This eBook covers up to 14 weeks of training for each game size presented as one session per week. All sessions have small sided games scrimmage set ups as close as we can get it to finish to reflect the theme of the session - Buy It Here
Develop: 2 v 2 with (B) joining in. In a 2 v 2 show the “piston effect” of support movements as the ball travels. Also consider that the closest player can close down the ball as it travels from player to player.
(2) closes (A) down and shows inside to the support player. (1) Supports at a 45 degree angle but is also screening (B). In the 2 v 1 situation (1) only had to think about supporting (2) but now there are two things to consider; supporting (2) and screening the position and movement of (B). Distance of support depends on the position on field and the speed and ability of opponent. The support player can give verbal direction but also can take a position off the way the pressure player shows the attacker to go as previously discussed. It can depend on which happens first, the body position of the pressing player forcing the play one way or the verbal direction of the support player advising forcing the attacker towards their position.
Quick Transition Directional Play Promoting Passing and Movement Off the Ball
This session improves quick decision making, tight control because the spaces are small to play in, and thinking in advance due to the switch in direction of the play. You can also work on the defending players.
The following session is an excerpt from “Soccer Awareness Coaching Curriculums presented by Game Sizes: 4 v 4, 7 v 7, 9 v 9 through to 11 v 11”
This eBook covers up to 14 weeks of training for each game size presented as one session per week. All sessions have small sided games scrimmage set ups as close as we can get it to finish to reflect the theme of the session
As the program moves from 4 v 4 through to 11 v 11 the focus changes from individual teachings at 4 v 4, to small sided situations at 7 v 7, to Phases of play and tactical needs at 9 v 9; through to team tactical development at 11 v 11. 11 v 11 focuses on advanced training ideas to teach the “team”.
Quick continuous attacking play which is good for anaerobic fitness. Here the players are breaking one way passing to an outside player and switching positions, inside player out, outside player in then attack the other side of the zone.
Coaching Points:
Technical ability on the ball in 1 v 1 situations.
Quick Transition in attack - As the transition between players happens for example (3) changes with (5), the numbers team must get the ball to (4) as quickly as possible.
Observe the movement of (1), (2) and (6) in terms of their support positions as the directional change takes place, they must move in anticipation to find space to help the player on the ball as the switch occurs.
Observe also, as the change occurs, the positions of the defending team; has the decision been made quickly enough who presses the ball. Are the other defensive players supporting and covering and especially tracking runners off the ball. The coach must learn to look away from the ball and observe what may happen next before it happens.
This session improves quick decision making, tight control because the spaces are small to play in, and thinking in advance due to the switch in direction of the play. You can also work on the defending players.
Here (3) passes to (5) and (3) leaves the area. As the ball is traveling to (5), (1), (2) and (6) must get into a position to help (5) as early as possible so in theory, (5) can make a one touch pass to any or all of them. Thus (5) already has three options of a pass.
Their movement is OFF THE BALL and away from their markers.
Of course the defenders will move to compensate but for the sake of what I am trying to show it is easier to get the point across by showing the movements of the attacking team only.
The attacking players in the actual practice may get free like this anyway if they time it correctly.
The attacking players each being free to help (5) by being open for a pass.
(5) May elect to run with the ball but at least three are three options available for a pass if needed.
(5) May even elect to play a long pass straight to (4) on the other side of the field if the pressure from the closest defender is not fast enough. You may then ask the closest player (in this case player 2), not necessarily the passing player (5) to be the switching player instead if (5) passes it directly to (4).
You could even then work on defending in this game though focus on defending totally in the session or attacking totally in the session it is better not to try to do both as it can be confusing for the players.
Progression:
If a player beats an opponent in a 1 v 1 situation the team gets an extra point or goal each time.
Play one and two touch; reward each successful one touch pass with a goal to encourage the players to play quickly.
Competitive: Ensure you keep the score and have a finishing score to achieve as this keeps the players focused and motivated to win.
Why Man Marking is good to use in practice even if you don’t defend that way in a game situation
In the game players must develop the ability to be calm under pressure, to be confident to receive the ball in tight spaces and to have the confidence of teammates to give the ball to you under pressure.To be good at this takes time and practice and many sessions where constant pressure is applied in the training environment hence why man marking games can be so productive.
The following drill is an example presentation that can be found in the Defending Section of the Soccer Awareness Training Center. Soccer Awareness Training Center provides unlimited access to Wayne Harrison's Soccer Awareness systems, training sessions, drills and more. Wayne's system helps develop world class youth soccer players and teams in a systematic and imaginative manner that guarantees performance at the highest level of competition. Whether you’re a beginning coach who needs help getting started or someone who wants to add some variety to their training sessions, the Soccer Awareness Training Center offers a wide variety of drills to choose from. Join Today
It is not just about teaching the defending aspects of it as it has other uses:
So what does it help develop from an attacking standpoint?
- Finding space to get free from your marker in a restricted area.
- Being able to receive the ball under a pressuring situation.
- Developing the confidence of the other players to pass to you under pressure.
In the game players must develop the ability to be calm under pressure, to be confident to receive the ball in tight spaces and to have the confidence of teammates to give the ball to you under pressure.
To be good at this takes time and practice and many sessions where constant pressure is applied in the training environment hence why man marking games can be so productive.
Therefore players need to develop their ability to look ahead of the ball even more, to assess options and make decisions even faster because the time on the ball is even more restricted than usual.
Positional Possession Areas (6 zones)
Players MUST stay in their own areas. Two neutral players can move anywhere to create numerical superiority.
Could be up to a 3 v 1 in one area. Players in the other areas work to get free of their markers as play develops because the neutral players (usually Midfield players because they have the ball the most) are always looking to change the point of attack.
There will be plenty of times when it is just purely a 1 v 1 in each zone where players are really tested under pressure.
Change the difficulty by changing the number of touches allowed on the ball.
When players start to get good at this take out the neutral players to make it even more difficult for success and an even bigger challenge for each player.
Ultimately challenge the players to be successful under intense man marking pressure by playing 1 and 2 touches maximum.
Latest Training Center Presentations
Traveling with the Movement of the Ball in Defending When the Ball Is in Front and When the Ball Is Behind the Back Four
Defensive Pressing to Push Up Without Touching the Ball
Pressing in Attacking Third
Why Man Marking Is Good to Use in Practice Even If You Don’t Defend That Way in A Game Situation
Soccer Awareness Training Center provides unlimited access to Wayne Harrison's Soccer Awareness systems, training sessions, drills and more. Wayne's system helps develop world class youth soccer players and teams in a systematic and imaginative manner that guarantees performance at the highest level of competition. Join Now
A Simple Explanation on How to Defend as a Team in 11 v 11
Playing in 5 Corridors widthwise to help define the positioning of players. Also playing in 3 thirds from goal to goal lengthwise (lets call these ZONES FOR CLARITY). Here we have a good balance with players positioning at angles to each other. Must get the team into 2 thirds only, except for the keeper, both offensively and defensively.
The following drill is an example presentation that can be found on the 4-2-3-1 System of Play page in the Soccer Awareness Training Center. Soccer Awareness Training Center provides unlimited access to Wayne Harrison's Soccer Awareness systems, training sessions, drills and more. Wayne's system helps develop world class youth soccer players and teams in a systematic and imaginative manner that guarantees performance at the highest level of competition. Whether you’re a beginning coach who needs help getting started or someone who wants to add some variety to their training sessions, the Soccer Awareness Training Center offers a wide variety of drills to choose from. Join Today
Attacking to Defensive Team Shape
Attacking: Based on the 5 corridors width-wise we want all 5 corridors to have players in them. Based length–wise we want a maximum of 2 of 3 zones filled; with the exception of the keeper.
Defending: Based on the 5 corridors width-wise we want a maximum of 3 corridors filled with players preferably 2.5 if possible. Based length-wise we want a maximum of 2 of 3 zones filled preferably the whole team is condensed into 1.5 zones or at most half a field.
Dividing the field into fifths widthwise and thirds lengthways: the Offensive Set Up
Playing in 5 Corridors widthwise to help define the positioning of players. Also playing in 3 thirds from goal to goal lengthwise (lets call these ZONES FOR CLARITY). Here we have a good balance with players positioning at angles to each other. Must get the team into 2 thirds only, except for the keeper, both offensively and defensively.
Shadow Play: The Defensive Set Up
Play without opponents and show our basic attacking shape then offer alternatives for pressing as a group and have them do it as fast as possible. Use different color cones to represent where we lost the ball then organize the team around this defensive starting point having the players decide where they think they should be and why.
Can extend this back to the middle third also
We lose it wide in the middle third; purple cone; try to press them inside still to where our strength is with numbers. Wing full backs have to be brave and stay in midfield but condense in. (3) delays, shows inside to (10), the rest condense. (10) cuts off passing lane forward as does (11) inside or back.. It will NEVER be this picture perfect but all the same it shows what we should strive for. Pivot (6) is the key for cover.
Playing a Pressing game comes from the back
If we want to play a pressing game then we must have the back four as high as possible (essentially a back 3 now) and then the responsibility of the front players is to press asap when we lose it to stop a counter attack. Same in midfield where we now have our wing fullbacks positioned.
Pressing in attacking third condensing to 3 corridors
Condensing the spaces close to the ball. (11) forces (A) inside to the support and blocks the pass to (I). (3) is already up there and so is the next pressing player. Don’t worry about (D) and (G) and (4) already has covered the space should (A) be able to play the ball long. Defending just inside our own half.
New 4-2-3-1 System of Play Presentations in the Soccer Awareness Training Center
Correcting Potential Weaknesses in the 4-2-3-1 System of Play from a Defensive Perspective
How to Teach Freedom of Movement for the 4-2-3-1; Attacking and Defensive Positioning and Covering for Each Other
Showing the 4-2-3-1 Transitioning to the 3-4-3 in Attack
The Attacking and Defending Roles and Responsibilities of Each Player in the 4-2-3-1
Soccer Awareness Training Center provides unlimited access to Wayne Harrison's Soccer Awareness systems, training sessions, drills and more. Wayne's system helps develop world class youth soccer players and teams in a systematic and imaginative manner that guarantees performance at the highest level of competition. Join Now
When to Close in Wide and Central Areas
This session covers when and when not to close down in wide and then central areas. The practice develops into an 11 v 11 game situation, still working with the defending team. The coach serves to the opponents in different locations on the field and the team needs to try to win the ball back individually and collectively.
This is the fourth in a four part series on defending tactics.
To Close or Not to Close in Wide Areas
- This is an example of what can happen if the wide defender is drawn to the ball when it is at (C). Notice as (2) leaves the space and closes (C), the ball is passed into striker (E) who can lay off the ball wide into the open space that has been left by (2) for (A) to run into unopposed.
- This now compromises (4)’s position who now has a 2 v 1 against. If (2) were to anticipate the pass early and be in a position to intercept, only then would it be possible to close (C) down and have success. If you were to tie the four up this would prevent this situation happening and let the players feel how they should position with the restriction of being tied together.
To Close or Not to Close in Central Areas
This is the best course of action when a central player’s position is threatened by a movement short by the striker. (5) Only goes so far then lets striker (F) go deep into midfield. In a game situation a midfielder could pick up (F) on entering their zone. As extra cover, as (5) goes short, (4) moves across to cover the space left by (5) and (2) moves across to cover the space left by (4)’s movement leaving the outside space free. The best scenario is if (5) only goes so far then drops back to establish the chain link of the back four again maybe even dropping into the position (4) left to fill the first space if this player has covered across.
- A position to avoid getting into would be when the striker goes short to receive the ball to feet. The central defender must decide how far to follow but not allow a big hole to be made behind by being pulled away from the other three defenders.
- This shows the defender going too far and being drawn into midfield. The correct decision would be to only go so far as to not lose touch with the back four unit shape, if the striker keeps going short then he / she is moving away from the danger area and into an area where they will be less of a danger to the back four defenders. (4) And (2) can still move across and fill the spaces left but player (5) doesn’t want to get too far away from them to become isolated.
Defending in an 11 v 11 Situation
- Here we have developed the practice into an 11 v 11 game situation, still working with the defending team (numbered team). The coach serves to the opponents lettered team in different locations on the field and the team need to try to win the ball back individually and collectively.
- The target for the defending team when they win the ball could be to just chip the ball into the opponent’s keeper and the defending team has to win the ball again starting from where the coach serves the ball.
- I have shown zonal defending as a team using a 4-3-1-2 system of play with a diamond shaped midfield but the same principles apply with other systems using the zonal method of defending and it is easy to practice this method with different shapes of teams.
- Over the page the same idea with a different set up. You can set the session up in your preferred team system of play and / or set the other team up in the system of play you know your next opponents play to practice defending against. There are numerous variations to use in this set up to achieve your defensive goals.
- Here we are using a 4 – 4 – 2 system to work the defending set up.
- It is the same idea as the previous diagram the coach can play the ball into various situations always to the other team to attack and for the defending team you are coaching to try to win back the ball.
- Once you have used the target plan to allow lots of opportunity for defensive situations to practice, the defending team can now be allowed to attack the opposition as a reward for regaining possession and score a goal if possible.
- Eventually let the game go free.
Italian Pressing and Conditioning Play Part 2: Pressing with a Back Four and Defensive Midfielder
Same idea as previously, if there is no pressure on the ball then the defenders drop to prevent the ball being played into the space behind them for the strikers to run onto. Don’t get caught flat.
This is part 2 of a four part series on Italian Pressing and Conditioning Play.
Pressing with a Back Four and Defensive Midfielder
- Same idea as previously, if there is no pressure on the ball then the defenders drop to prevent the ball being played into the space behind them for the strikers to run onto. Don’t get caught flat.
- By defenders dropping slower than the attacker with the ball and the other two attackers, the distance between them decreases. As this happens (6) is pressing the ball.
- Once pressure on the ball is able to be applied, they all step up off the step and pressing on the ball of (6). Use a command call (e.g. STEP; as mentioned earlier).
Back four have dropped, two strikers are moving forward quickly and along the same line as them (6) has good pressure on the ball initially.
- Defenders hold the line now or push up, (as in this case).
- The good pressure on the ball from (6) allows them to do this, and as it can’t be played forward easily, that is the cue to press as a unit following the call.
- Same principles as in the previous 3 v 3.
- Wide players (fullbacks) must ensure they do not drop deeper than the center backs and play an attacker onside from a wide area where they cannot then affect them because they are too far away.
- (A) and (C) are offside and we should have won the ball and continued pushing up leaving opponents having to recover a long way back.
Here we have the end product; (A) and (C) are well offside even if (B) can pass the ball through.
Players have condensed towards the ball. This takes a well orchestrated movement by All the players, if one forgets then there is a possibility if (B) can pass the ball through then a striker in advance of the ball may be onside.
- Here defender (3) has not pushed up and is playing (A) and (C) onside from a wide position so if the ball is able to be passed through this player cannot get close to, certainly (A), and maybe even (C) in this case, to prevent either of them shooting on goal.
- Whilst it is unlikely (B) can thread the ball through to either striker if the defenders have condensed and gotten close enough to the ball, if that player can pass it through then we are in trouble,
- Is this a risky policy for defending, it can be if the defenders are not ALL tuned in at the same time; nor if there is not a leader who can identify the moment to do this as it has to be an instant decision and command call.
- If you are unsure as a coach of your players being able to do this then never use this tactic, if you have players capable of making it happen then work on it and have it as an alternative to dropping off all the time, then opponents are not quite sure what you will do to defend this particular situation.
They will think: “Will they press or will they drop?” and by having different means of defending this may delay their decision making; which is to your advantage.
Pressure: When, Where and How as a Unit in the Attacking 1/3rd
The majority of goals in the game of soccer are results of mistakes and most mistakes occur when players are put under pressure, especially in dangerous areas. When you are attacking and you lose possession your first goal should be to regain possession. You will be surprised the number of times your opponent will give the ball away in front of the goal when your team closes them down in an organized fashion.
The majority of goals in the game of soccer are results of mistakes and most mistakes occur when players are put under pressure, especially in dangerous areas. When you are attacking and you lose possession your first goal should be to regain possession. You will be surprised the number of times your opponent will give the ball away in front of the goal when your team closes them down in an organized fashion.
Activity #1: Warm Up
Set Up: Players move on a half pitch with a partner as shown below. Partners pass and move freely.
Explanation: Players pass and move - on coaches command - one player sprints to "pressure" his opponent. This pressure can be passive at first and progress to full pressure as the warm-up continues.
Coaching Points:
- Speed of pressure
- Angle of pressure
- Tenacity to win ball
Activity #2: 5v5 Game
Set Up: One team has 5 field players (Yellow): the other team has 4 field players and a goalkeeper (Red) as shown below. Three mini-goals are created using flags as shown.
Explanation: Play starts with a pass from the goalkeeper to any of his teammates. Emphasis is placed on the defensive shape and responsibilities of the "defensive" (Yellow) team. The "attacking" team (Red above) must attempt to score in any of the three mini-goals near the half-way line. If the "defensive" team gains possession of the ball they must attack quickly and attempt to score in the full-size goal. Play is continuous until a goal is scored. In the Diagram above, the "defensive" unit has adjusted their positions to try to win the ball - Player (A) is forcing the play inside; Player (B) has stepped to ball-side on Red (G). Players (C) and (D) have moved to confine the playing area. The 4 "attacking" players get the ball on every re-start.
Coaching Points:
- Defensive team must work as a "UNIT"
- Communicate at all times.
- "Read the Game" - try to intercept passes etc.
- Move as the ball moves - positioning in relation to teammates, opponents, ball.
- Speed of counter-attack after winning possession.
- Use the man advantage to maintain possession if a quick counter-attack is not possible.
Activity #3: 7v7 + Goalkeepers
Set Up: Two-thirds of a pitch is used as the playing area. A half-way line is created using cones. Two teams of 7 players are organized within the playing area as shown below.
Explanation: Play starts with a pass to the Yellow attacking team. One team is designated as the "attacking" team (Yellow above) and the other team is designated as the "defending " team (Red above). Both teams compete for possession of the ball and attempt to score in their opponent’s goal. The offside law is in effect. Emphasis is placed on the defensive responsibilities and shape of the Red team. The "defensive" team are encouraged to create pressure areas / pockets in certain areas of the pitch in order to win possession of the ball. All re-starts go to the Yellow "attacking" team.
See Diagram below - the Red "defensive" team has created a "pressure pocket" on one side of the pitch making it very difficult for the Yellow team to maintain possession - this may force a turn-over in an advanced area of the pitch. Player (A) has stepped to put immediate pressure on the ball as well as force the opponent inside towards the pressure; Players (B) and (C) have stepped to the ball-side shoulder of their opponents in anticipation of intercepting any potential pass. Player (D) has moved to deny a passing option for the wide Yellow player. Players (E), (F), (G) have all adjusted their positions to squeeze the space and make the pitch more compact while still providing adequate cover and balance.
Progression: Have the players play "low pressure" at first and switch to "pressing" at coaches command or on certain visual cues - bad pass, back-pass to goalkeeper etc. This can help develop an understanding of the right moments to apply pressure and in what areas.
Coaching Points:
- Move as a "UNIT"
- Communicate at all times.
- Read the game - anticipate the play.
- Counter-Attack quickly if possible.
- Force the attacking team into tight areas - dictate what the opponents do!
Four Color Cone Defending Drill
Four cones, red, blue, yellow and white, coach calls different colors players have to adjust side to side to get there quickly. 5 to 6 seconds each pair. Defenders are now shifting quickly and against the movement of the attacker when the attacker decides to shift the ball one way or the other. Only do it for 5 or 6 seconds because in games defenders only stay down there like this for that time period generally. How quickly can they do it?
The following session is an excerpt from Soccer Awareness eBook 19: The Principles of Defending for U8 to U14
Teaching the principles of defending is a vital Art that every coach and player must learn, in theory it is 50% of the game, we cannot score if we cant win the ball in the first place.
This book takes you through simple individual beginnings to more complex unit and team ideas on defending. We address all the important facets of defending such as pressure on the ball and how to tackle or delay, immediate supporting positions, covering positions beyond the support player, the importance of recovery runs to get back goal side of the ball (which many players don't like or want to do), the need for players to track back individual opponents so they do not overload areas against us; and ultimately how we must develop compactness as a team.
Four cones, red, blue, yellow and white, coach calls different colors players have to adjust side to side to get there quickly. 5 to 6 seconds each pair. Defenders are now shifting quickly and against the movement of the attacker when the attacker decides to shift the ball one way or the other. Only do it for 5 or 6 seconds because in games defenders only stay down there like this for that time period generally. How quickly can they do it?
Change Cone Set Up
Defenders do not just move laterally but they move in different directions such as diagonally and also forwards and backwards. Move the cones so they are at angles to each other. So in pairs and again calling the color, the same routine but a different cone set up so running in different directions and at different angles.
Progression: Open it up so distances are longer.
Do three pairs at once all starting on the same color.
The head forward and the “sitting down” position
Maldini of AC Milan gets into this position with his knees tucked in, like skiers do.
If going to shift to the left; then the right leg does the work, if to right; then the left leg does the work. Getting into this position is physically hard work also.
Longer distance (one outside cone to the other) then can cross legs over and run a couple of strides and on the last two strides do the shifting style side to side. So run a couple of strides first then the feet go side to side as opposed to crossing.
Now side to side to each cone; pressing inside the cone. Have the left foot in line with the left cone, right foot in line with the right cone showing inside.. Check that the feet are right so run at each cone, hold, check, and then go again to the next one. Next show outside so get your right foot just about level with the left cone, your left foot the same with the right cone. You might give half a yard but no more because if you give more the attacker will cut across and inside you. It can be a curved run if you have time.
Showing outside; get the foot, “just about”, level with the ball.
Two Passers positioned at the end of the Balls.
Instructions: On the first run, defenders press each ball and show the ball (the dribbler) to the outside. On the 2nd run the defender shows the ball to the inside. At the end of the run, the defender presses a couple of one touch passes made by the two end players, then goes back to the end of the line to start again.
Coaching Points:
- Speed to the ball is important and "putting on the brakes" just before each ball is key too.
- Do not cross legs in transition.
- "Sit Down" (bend legs) when pressing.
Progression: Now 2 defenders working together press and support.
Instructions: This time the 1st defender has a 2nd defender, a covering player, behind. On the first run, defenders press each ball and show the ball (the dribbler) to the outside. On the 2nd run, the defenders show the ball to the inside. Check the 2nd defenders position each time. Ask the players to show you where they think their support position is.
At the end of the run, the defenders press a couple of one touch passes made by the two end players. In this case they switch over being the pressing player and the covering player.
You can do it two ways, the first defender is always the pressing player, or between each cone they alternate.
A Game Situation for 1 v 1 Defending
Divide the teams up into two 3 v 3 games with teams attacking the short side lines to score a goal. Play with one ball then two balls so there is some 1 v 1’s and also some support play. Then they attack the long sides as targets making it a little harder to defend successfully.
The following is an excerpt from Soccer Awareness eBook 19: The Principles of Defending for U8 to U14.
Defending can be an overlooked Art in the game. Many of us love attacking play and train our teams a lot in it but to attack we need to defend well to win the ball in the first place to then allow us to attack. This book helps explain the importance of great defending and how vital it is to teach players the principles of it. These principles do not just apply to defenders per se; in this book we also teach strikers how to defend as if they win it then they are directly on goal to score. When we defend as a team everyone; all 11; are defenders and must be trained in it as when we attack we are all attackers and likewise we have to teach all 11 players to think offensively. We hope you enjoy this book and appreciate the importance of this great Art of Defending in soccer.
Divide the teams up into two 3 v 3 games with teams attacking the short side lines to score a goal. Play with one ball then two balls so there is some 1 v 1’s and also some support play. Then they attack the long sides as targets making it a little harder to defend successfully.
Defending In 1 V 1’s, 2 V 1’s And 2 V 2’s
Two goals for each team to attack, players have to attack 1 v 1 to score. Defenders have to stop them and try to score themselves As soon as the attack is over; the attacker becomes the defender and the other team attacks.
If a defender wins the ball they can attack and score but they must defend again. To score the player must be over the shooting line (5 yards out).
Develop – A 2 v 1 situation, the attacker who doesn’t finish the move becomes the new defender. The new defender must position outside the shooting zone. New attackers must begin with a pass and overlap to make it more difficult for the defenders.
Develop – 2 v 2 situation, the team who takes a shot becomes the defenders. The same rules apply as above. If the ball goes out of bounds a new team starts.
A Short and Simple Explanation on How to Defend
Attacking: Based on the 5 corridors width-wise we want all 5 corridors to have players in them.
Based length–wise we want a maximum of 2 of 3 zones filled; with the exception of the keeper.
Defending: Based on the 5 corridors width-wise we want a maximum of 3 corridors filled with players preferably 2.5 if possible.
Based length-wise we want a maximum of 2 of 3 zones filled preferably the whole team is condensed into 1.5 zones or at most half a field.
Get more like this in Soccer Awareness eBook 19: The Principles of Defending for U8 to U14.
This book takes you through simple individual beginnings to more complex unit and team ideas on defending. We address all the important facets of defending such as pressure on the ball and how to tackle or delay, immediate supporting positions, covering positions beyond the support player, the importance of recovery runs to get back goal side of the ball (which many players don't like or want to do), the need for players to track back individual opponents so they do not overload areas against us; and ultimately how we must develop compactness as a team.
Attacking to Defensive Team Shape
Attacking: Based on the 5 corridors width-wise we want all 5 corridors to have players in them.
Based length–wise we want a maximum of 2 of 3 zones filled; with the exception of the keeper.
Defending: Based on the 5 corridors width-wise we want a maximum of 3 corridors filled with players preferably 2.5 if possible.
Based length-wise we want a maximum of 2 of 3 zones filled preferably the whole team is condensed into 1.5 zones or at most half a field.
Dividing the field into fifths widthwise and thirds lengthwise: The Offensive Set Up
Playing in 5 Corridors widthwise to help define the positioning of players. Also playing in 3 thirds from goal to goal lengthwise (lets call these ZONES FOR CLARITY). Here we have a good balance with players positioning at angles to each other. Must get the team into 2 thirds only, except for the keeper, both offensively and defensively.
Shadow Play: The Defensive Set Up
Play without opponents and show our basic attacking shape then offer alternatives for pressing as a group and have them do it as fast as possible. Use different color cones to represent where we lost the ball then organize the team around this defensive starting point having the players decide where they think they should be and why.
Can extend this back to the middle third also
We lose it wide in the middle third; purple cone; try to press them inside still to where our strength is with numbers. Wing full backs have to be brave and stay in midfield but condense in. (3) delays, shows inside to (10), the rest condense. (10) cuts off passing lane forward as does (11) inside or back.. It will NEVER be this picture perfect but all the same it shows what we should strive for. Pivot (6) is the key for cover.
Playing a Pressing game comes from the back
If we want to play a pressing game then we must have the back four as high as possible (essentially a back 3 now) and then the responsibility of the front players is to press asap when we lose it to stop a counter attack. Same in midfield where we now have our wing fullbacks positioned.
Pressing in attacking third condensing to 3 corridors
Condensing the spaces close to the ball. (11) forces (A) inside to the support and blocks the pass to (I). (3) is already up there and so is the next pressing player. Don’t worry about (D) and (G) and (4) already has covered the space should (A) be able to play the ball long. Defending just inside our own half.
Defending in Wide Areas Against a Counter Attack
Positioning at the back when losing the ball
Both wing backs attacking. We lose the ball, the most vulnerable place for us is now the wide area as shown. We mark “goal-side” and leave the wide area open.
Positioning at the back when losing the ball
Both wing backs attacking. We lose the ball, the most vulnerable place for us is now the wide area as shown. We mark “goal-side” and leave the wide area open.
We are exposed with a 1 v 1 wide
If (J) is fast we are in big trouble now as he attacks defender (4) in a 1 v 1. He could run inside to goal or into a crossing position. Next slide shows how we can prevent this before it happens.
What Should Happen
This is what should happen; (4) moves channel side of (J) and with depth to fill the space and prevent the pass. (6) drops in to cover or (5) if closer can do it. This may delay the forward momentum of (A) and allow recovery runs.
What Should Happen
Here (5) adds cover to (4) if needed, and (6) drops back to cover (K)s run. If (A) passes to (J)’s feet then (4) has time to close (J) down and control the situation with (J) with their back to goal. Other players will try to recover back or (3) and (11) can press and stop the delivery if close enough.
54 Pages
We want to stay with our own game plan as closely as possible; based on what we practice and to keep it simple for us; as we dictate to our opponents; and we impose OUR WAY on them.
But there will be many occasions where we must change the system of play and we may have to adjust to suit the opponents.
Here are some ideas for you to consider for your team starting with the 13313 and 14231 systems of play.